Is this the season Bayern Munich's legendary goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, decides to call time on his illustrious career? According to another Bavarian icon, Oliver Kahn, the timing might be perfect—and chasing another World Cup might not be necessary.

Kahn, a former Bayern and Germany stalwart himself, recently posed a compelling question. "Isn't now the perfect time to win all trophies with Bayern one last time and then retire at the very highest point possible?" he suggested in an interview with Sky. He then turned his attention to the prospect of the 2026 World Cup in North America. "Do I really need another World Cup in the USA with over 40 degrees in the shade? Do I have to put myself through that?"

Kahn believes these are the very calculations Neuer is likely making. With a potential third Champions League title with Bayern this season to go with his 2014 World Cup winner's medal, the goalkeeper's legacy is already secure. "If he wins the Champions League again with Bayern, that would be his third title. He's already a World Champion. Then it would be smart to say: 'That's it.' — That's quite an art for an athlete," Kahn remarked, praising the wisdom of knowing when to step away at the pinnacle.

It's a fascinating perspective from Kahn, who knows a thing or two about elite performance and longevity. The question now is whether Neuer, one of the most revolutionary goalkeepers in history, feels the same pull toward a storybook ending with his club. Only time will tell if the man between the posts for so many historic victories is ready to hang up his gloves for good.